Flagstaff, AZ is one of the best areas to go to during a family vacation in the upcoming year. Not only can you find things to do all year round, but you can save money by avoiding going to overcrowded spots. Instead of spending an exorbitant amount of money to go to an overpriced resort, why not try somewhere a bit more nature-friendly and fun for you and your kids? There are many things to do if you are thinking of going to Arizona for your first vacation in 2023! You have been inside all winter long, and you are tired of the gray skies, short days, and lack of outdoor activities. Instead of just sitting on your couch and wishing you were somewhere else, why not head to one of the most fun and outdoor-centric destinations with your partner and kids? Make your stay even better with one of our vacation rentals in Flagstaff, AZ!
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Best Family-Friendly Activities in Flagstaff, AZ
Flagstaff is no stranger to vacationers and families who are interested in going outside, exploring, and spending time with one another. Do one of these fun activities to keep you and your kids entertained all week, month, or winter long!
Go Hiking
There is no shortage of hiking trails in Flagstaff, AZ that are perfect for those who want an easy walk, lung-busting peak, or fun nature walk with their kids. Instead of feeling like you have to climb to the highest mountain, you can just get used to being outside and appreciating the wildlife with your kids.
One of the most popular trails is Humphrey’s Peak, an exercise-inducing trail that I grate for families with older kids. Or, if you want to get great views of the surrounding Flagstaff area without spending the entire day outside, we recommend heading to Fatman’s Loop Trail off of US-89. No, the name is not indicative of who should go on the trail!
Other cool outdoor trails to check out during your time in Flagstaff are the Campbell Mesa Loop trails, featuring great hiking, walking, and biking options for you and your kids. You can also head to the Sandy Seep Trailhead to have your choice of trails, ranging from easy beginner jaunts to expert trails that are great for running or hiking with older kids.
Arizona Snowbowl
If you come to Arizona for your first vacation of 2023, chances are you are going to be here during the snow season. The snow in Arizona is present during the entire winter season, from approximately October to March. If you come to Arizona during the late winter or the springtime, you can take advantage of the winter wonderland and go skiing, snowboarding, or sledding with your ids. The best part about going to the Arizona Snowbowl is that you can get some fresh air, go for snowshoe walks with your kids, and take the chair lift or gondola up to the top of the mountain to have panoramic views of Flagstaff down below.
Try Your Luck on the Disc Golf Course!
If you are in the mood to get in some great exercise with your kids — without worrying about injury, using your kids, or including everyone — then disc golf is THE best outdoor activity! Instead of risking injury by skiing on black diamond slopes or going for strenuous hikes, disc golf is great for kids of all ages and those of varying fitness levels. Head to Thorpe Park to try your luck at throwing the discs and seeing if you have incredible aim!
Walk Around Red Mountain
Just like the hiking trails and the ski slopes in the surrounding area, Red Mountain is a perfect place to go to if you are into nature, scenery, and breathtaking views. We love heading here via public transportation or car, since it is just 30 minutes from the downtown area of Flagstaff by taking Highway 180. Head here to soak in the incredible natural surroundings, view the incredible crater, and spend quality time with your family.
Attempt to Catch a Few Fish at the Frances Short Pond
If you are into fishing, like you are from the country in the United States, chances are you have fished before with your family! If so, you know how fun it can be to spend quality time with your family while sitting in a boat, checking out the bright blue water, and trying to catch a huge trout or salmon to cook for dinner!
Plus, the perks of being in this pond vs. others in the surrounding area is that you can bring your kids out for FREE — yes, you read that right, free! In a country where everyone costs something, having a free outdoor activity for you to do with your kids is great for bonding, learning a new skill, and spending quality time with your family in the open air.
Test Your Balance and Agility at the Challenge Course at Buffalo Park
The Challenge Course at Buffalo Park is one of the coolest things that you can bring your kids to during your time in Flagstaff! Not only will kids of all ages be entertained and interested during their time here, but you can bring the competitive spirit that has since disappeared as an adult.
Try your luck going through the various courses and see if you can successfully complete all of the obstacles. Not only will you get in some great exercise, but you can build trust and unity within your family! This is great for teens who are moody and sulking for the majority of their time. Brighten their spirits and have a great time during your first vacation of 2023!
Complete the Adventure Course at Fort Tuthill
If you just can’t get enough of fun adventure courses, challenges, and physical exercise, then we have another place for you to check out! Head to the Adventure Course at Fort Tuthill to go down the zip line course, try to get through all of the high-up obstacles, and have a few laughs with your kids. Chances are they will love seeing their parents try and get through the ropes and zip at high speeds down the safe zipline course!
Go for a Bike Ride as a Family in the Beautiful Weather
Last but not least, going for a nice bike ride with your kids is a great way for you to spend time with one another and see all that Flagstaff has to offer. You can whizz down the main street, check out the historical section of Flagstaff, and see the incredible panoramic views that make this area of Arizona so famous. Rent a few bikes for you and your kids — and a few helmets — and carefully cycle around the bike-friendly areas of Flagstaff with your loved ones to get in some great exercise and see the far-reaching views.
Book Your Stay Today
Doesn’t Flagstaff sound like the ideal spot to go for your first vacation of 2023? We think so too! Book vacation rentals in Flagstaff today with Porter to stay at the vacation home of your dreams with your friends and family. We know that you will have the best time of the entire year at one of our luxurious homes, apartments, villas, or condos!